In a thrilling display of football prowess, Inter Milan triumphed over Barcelona 4-3 in the second leg of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League semi-finals, held at the iconic San Siro in Milan on May 6, 2025. This hard-fought victory allowed Inter Milan to advance to the Champions League final with an aggregate score of 7-6, marking their first appearance in the final since the 2022-2023 season and the seventh in the club's storied history.
The first leg of the semi-final had concluded in a dramatic 3-3 draw, setting the stage for an electrifying return match. Inter Milan came out firing on all cylinders, and it didn’t take long for them to find the back of the net. In the 21st minute, Lautaro Martinez capitalized on a defensive error, scoring the opening goal after a clever assist from Dumfries. The home crowd erupted, sensing that history could be in the making.
As the first half progressed, the momentum continued to favor Inter. Just before half-time, Martinez was fouled in the penalty area, leading to a penalty kick that Hakan Calhanoglu calmly converted, doubling the lead to 2-0.
However, Barcelona, renowned for their resilience, responded fiercely after the break. In the 54th minute, Eric Garcia found the net, bringing the score to 2-1. Just six minutes later, Denzel Dumfries assisted Dani Olmo, who headed in the equalizer, leveling the game at 2-2. The tension in the stadium was palpable as Barcelona pressed for a lead.
In a dramatic turn of events, Rafinha scored in the 87th minute, giving Barcelona a 3-2 advantage and seemingly sealing Inter's fate. Yet, in the dying moments of regular time, Inter Milan demonstrated their fighting spirit. In the third minute of stoppage time, Dumfries delivered a pinpoint cross, and Francesco Acerbi, who had a remarkable night, scored to equalize at 3-3, sending the match into extra time.
Extra time was a test of endurance and skill, with both teams creating chances. Inter's goalkeeper Yann Sommer made several crucial saves, keeping his team in the game. The decisive moment came in the 99th minute when Davide Frattesi scored the winning goal, finishing a beautifully orchestrated move that left the Barcelona defense scrambling.
This match not only showcased the talent and determination of Inter Milan but also saw a remarkable personal achievement for Acerbi. At 37 years old, he scored his first Champions League goal in what was his 36th appearance in the tournament, a testament to his resilience after battling testicular cancer twice earlier in his life. His equalizing goal was deemed invaluable, with reports suggesting it could be worth 18.5 million euros in prize money for advancing to the final.
Inter Milan's victory was historic, as they became the first team to score 13 goals across two semi-final matches, tying the Champions League record for most goals in a semi-final. They will face Paris Saint-Germain in the final, who defeated Arsenal 3-1 on aggregate in their semi-final.
The final is scheduled to take place in Munich, Germany, on June 1, 2025, and Inter Milan will be eager to claim their fourth Champions League title, having last won the prestigious trophy in 2010. The anticipation is building, and fans are already buzzing with excitement for what promises to be a captivating showdown between two of Europe’s elite clubs.
As the dust settles on this thrilling semi-final, Inter Milan has proven their mettle, showcasing not just skill but heart and determination. With a blend of experienced players like Acerbi and young talents, they have the potential to make history in the upcoming final. Will they rise to the occasion and lift the coveted trophy once more? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the footballing world will be watching.